Kingston: Lunch Cruise of Thousand Islands

Taking to the waters of Ontario’s iconic Thousand Islands on a cruise that combines scenic splendor with tasty food sounds like a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Whether you’re visiting Kingston for the first time or a seasoned local, this lunch cruise offers a relaxing escape from city life, with a generous helping of gorgeous island views and engaging commentary. Our review is based on a solid collection of genuine feedback and detailed descriptions, helping you decide if this experience is right for you.

What makes this cruise special? First, the scenery of the islands is truly breathtaking, especially when viewed from the upper decks or the fully glazed, air-conditioned cabin. Second, the delicious onboard meal—from appetizers to desserts—is designed to satisfy without feeling overly heavy, making it perfect for a leisurely meal amid stunning vistas. Third, the friendly and knowledgeable staff, particularly guides and servers, add a genuine warmth that elevates the experience.

One potential consideration is the disruption some guests noted with noise levels and timing—it’s not a highly formal experience, so expectations should match a laid-back, fun cruise rather than a quiet, silent retreat. This cruise works best for those who enjoy a combination of sightseeing, light storytelling, and good food in a comfortable, social setting.

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded, value-packed experience featuring beautiful scenery, engaging commentary, and an appealing menu. It suits couples, families, and groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone curious to see the islands from a different perspective.

Good To Know

• Beautiful views of the Thousand Islands from multiple decks and panoramic windows.
• Engaging guides provide entertaining commentary and stories about the region’s history and folklore.
• Tasty onboard lunch with appetizers, main course, and dessert—vegetarian options available.
• Comfortable boat options, either the Island Queen with open-air decks or the air-conditioned Island Star with 360° views.
• Good value for money at $73 per person for a three-hour experience including food, entertainment, and taxes.
• Accessibility and convenience with a central Kingston departure point and options for group bookings.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Departure and Check-In

Your adventure begins at the Crawford Wharf dock, conveniently located next to the ticket office at 1 Brock Street in Kingston. Arriving 30 minutes early is wise, especially since there’s no parking directly at the dock. Most travelers opt for the Hanson Memorial Parking Garage, just a short walk away. After exchanging your voucher, you’ll collect your tickets and join the boarding line. The actual boarding process is generally smooth and well-organized.

The Cruise Experience

The cruise lasts around three hours, making it a manageable yet substantial outing. You’ll be on one of two vessels, either the Island Queen or the Island Star, depending on capacity and availability. Both ships are equipped to showcase the region’s beauty, with the Island Queen featuring a triple-deck layout, allowing for open-air promenades, and the Island Star offering a fully glass-enclosed cabin for panoramic viewing regardless of weather.

Scenery and Highlights

From Kingston’s docks, the route winds through notable sights including Napoleon’s Hat, Wanderer’s Channel, and the Bateau Channel. You’ll glimpse the Mandalay Mansion, a recently built, opulent residence, and the historic landmarks around Kingston’s waterfront. As your boat slips past charming cottage islands and historic sites, the guides provide lively commentary, sharing stories and folklore. One reviewer praised Donna, calling her a “fantastic guide” who kept everyone entertained and informed for the entire trip.

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Outside Deck and Indoor Comfort

On the upper decks, the panoramic views are spectacular—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. Some guests noted that the outdoor seating is the best way to experience the islands’ charm, especially on a sunny day. Inside, the full-service canteen and bar offer a variety of drinks for purchase, from cocktails to soft drinks, although some reviews suggested that including complimentary coffee or tea would be a nice touch.

The Lunch: Food & Beverage

The highlight for many is the delicious onboard meal. The menu includes an appetizer, main course, and dessert—many reviews highlight the quality of the food, with dishes like juicy chicken, roasted vegetables, and well-made desserts like carrot cheesecake. Vegetarian options are available, and guests are encouraged to notify staff of dietary restrictions when booking.

The entertainment during lunch is lively, with music and commentary that keeps the atmosphere upbeat. For a few, the noise level could be a challenge, especially in the middle deck, as some guests mentioned difficulty hearing the guides at times. Still, most found the commentary informative and engaging, adding context to the stunning scenery.

Additional Features

Live entertainment is a regular feature, with the guides sharing local folklore and historical tidbits. This storytelling enhances the experience, making the trip more than just a boat ride. The fully glazed cabin on the Island Star allows for 360-degree views, which is especially appreciated on cloudy days or when the weather is hot. The open-air decks are ideal for sunny weather, providing a more immersive experience.

Returning & Practicalities

After about three hours, the cruise concludes back at the Kingston dock. The entire experience is well-paced, allowing you to relax, enjoy the scenery, and indulge in good food without feeling rushed. Reviews mentioned the well-organized boarding and seating, which contributes to a pleasant atmosphere.

The Value of This Experience

At $73 per person, this cruise offers solid value. It includes the three-hour cruise, full onboard meal, live entertainment, and taxes. While some reviewers thought the food was “excellent” and the scenery “spectacular,” others appreciated how the entire package delivers a complete, no-hassle outing in a prime location. The combination of a scenic boat ride with a hearty lunch makes it a worthwhile activity—especially if you want a relaxed, picturesque experience with good company.

What’s Not Included

Extras like specialty menu items or beverages are available for purchase. Some guests suggested that including complimentary tea or coffee would be a nice addition, but overall, the prices for drinks and extras seem reasonable. Be aware that this is not a formal dining experience, so expectations should be about good food in a casual, scenic setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for couples celebrating a special day, families looking for a fun outing, or groups of friends seeking a scenic, social experience. It’s also suitable for those with limited mobility, as the boats are wheelchair accessible and the organization is attentive to passenger needs.

If you’re someone who enjoys fantastic views, good storytelling, and delicious food in a laid-back environment, this cruise is a great choice. However, if you prefer a quiet, silent experience or are sensitive to noise, you might find the commentary and music a bit lively.

Final Thoughts

The Kingston Lunch Cruise of the Thousand Islands offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and dining in one accessible package. The quality of the food, combined with the stunning scenery and friendly guides, makes it a memorable experience for many. The three-hour duration strikes a good balance, giving you enough time to enjoy the surroundings without feeling fatigued.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy Kingston’s waterway from a different perspective, this cruise provides a reliable, enjoyable outing. It’s not a luxury cruise, but it offers excellent value and plenty of authentic charm.

FAQ

Is there a specific vessel used for this cruise?
Depending on capacity and availability, your cruise might be on the Island Queen or the Island Star. Both are well-equipped to showcase the scenery comfortably.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately three hours, including time for boarding, enjoying the scenery, lunch, and commentary.

Is the food suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and it’s advisable to inform staff of dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

Are beverages included in the price?
No, drinks such as coffee, tea, and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boats are wheelchair accessible. Remember to specify your needs when booking to ensure proper assistance.

What should I know about parking and check-in?
There’s no parking at the dock, so most guests use the Hanson Memorial Parking Garage at 105 Brock Street. Arrive 30 minutes early to allow time for check-in and boarding.

To sum it up, this Kingston lunch cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, engaging narration, and satisfying meals at a reasonable price. It’s a great choice for those wanting to see the islands from the water while enjoying a relaxing meal and lively company. If you’re after a scenic, enjoyable day on Ontario’s waters, this cruise ticks most boxes—just bring your camera and your appetite.

You can check if your dates are available here: